Fellowship
Posted by Todd Lowans | Posted in church , fellowship | Posted on 3:14 PM
Fellowship is such a Christian word. We gather together to fellowship, some churches even have fellowship halls, whatever that is. But I wonder if we really know what true Christian fellowship even looks like. Here's how I see it . . .
The typical scripture jumped to when discussing this is Acts 2:42-47
42 All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord's Suppers), and to prayer. 43 A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders.44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had.45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need.46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord's Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generositys 47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.
I don't know if I will get in trouble for this but, it seems like trying to copy that model exactly in the past has lead to cults. I think that's because we have focused too much on the benefits of fellowship to us as the church. Yes, fellowship is an inward focused act, but it should have outward focused results. True fellowship will foster lots of things . . .
True fellowship fosters discipleship - That's because when the people in your fellowship family experience open, honest relationships together, they have an easier time asking hard questions and challenging each other to grow.
True fellowship fosters ministry - That's because when we care about one another and we know one another's needs, it's easier to put love into action. We don't hesitate to help.
True fellowship fosters evangelism - When we know that a fellowship family member is hurting over loved ones who don't know Christ yet, we're more able—and more motivated—to pray for them to be saved.
True fellowship fosters worship - Those who experience genuine fellowship and unconditional love with one another are willing to be more vulnerable. This includes honesty in worship. When we are part of true community, we're apt to talk more openly to our friends and to surrender ourselves more freely to God.
But most importantly, True fellowship fosters attractive life change - When true fellowship happens people will be attracted to it, therefore if that is not happening then true fellowship isn't either.
Further Reading on Fellowship - Hebrews 10:24–25 & Ephesians 2:19
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